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The star-studded premiere of HBO's "The White Lotus" Season 3 became a uniquely memorable family affair when Arnold Schwarzenegger addressed his son Patrick's revealing scene with characteristic humor and swagger. At the Paramount Theatre in Los Angeles on February 10, 2025, the former California governor demonstrated that even nude scenes can become fodder for dad jokes.
"I was so pumped to take a break from filming to celebrate Patrick at the 'White Lotus' Season 3 premiere," Arnold shared on Instagram, adding with a wink, "I could claim to be surprised to find out he has a nude scene, but what can I say – the apple doesn't fall far from the tree." The elder Schwarzenegger's quip referenced his own history of on-screen nudity, particularly in the "Terminator" franchise.
Patrick Schwarzenegger steps into the role of Saxon Ratliff, portraying the privileged scion of a wealthy Southern family. During Monday's press conference, the younger Schwarzenegger reflected on the season's more intimate moments with measured apprehension about his family's presence at the premiere. "My whole family is coming to the premiere tonight, so we'll see how that goes," he remarked, hinting at "some scenes later in the season where he plans to take some bathroom breaks" during family viewings.
Series creator Mike White has crafted what Variety TV critic Alison Herman describes as "quite literally the biggest yet" season of the acclaimed anthology. The show ventures beyond its traditional confines, featuring "off-property adventures in Bangkok, at dance clubs and on palatial yachts — the kind of expensive, extra-crowded environments that were a distant dream back in the [Season 1] Hawai'i days."
The star-studded ensemble cast includes industry veterans Jason Isaacs, Parker Posey, and Walton Goggins, alongside rising talents like Blackpink's Lisa. White's vision for Season 3 promises "a satirical and funny look at death and Eastern religion and spirituality," suggesting a rich narrative tapestry that builds upon the series' award-winning legacy.
Even before its premiere, HBO has demonstrated unwavering confidence in the show's future by greenlighting a fourth season. The third season's expanded scope and ambitious storytelling signal an evolution of the franchise that has consistently captivated audiences with its sharp social commentary and unexpected turns.
"The White Lotus" Season 3 premieres this Sunday on Max, promising viewers another engaging exploration of privilege, family dynamics, and social satire, now with an added dose of Schwarzenegger family charm.
